Games controller

ABSTRACT

The invention provides an improved controller ( 10 ) for a games console. The invention is a games controller ( 10 ) that is intended to be held by a user in both hands. Additionally, the controller of the invention ( 10 ) may comprise a plurality of controls located on the front and top of the controller. The controller of the present invention ( 10 ) is advantageous as it additionally comprises an actuator mounted to one of the plurality of controls located on the front of the controller.

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 17/151,355 filed onJan. 18, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 15/767,023 filedon Apr. 9, 2018, which is the U.S. national phase entry of Intl. App.No. PCT/EP2016/074111 filed on Oct. 7, 2016, which claims priority fromU.S. Ser. No. 62/239,517 filed on Oct. 9, 2015. The entire contents ofU.S. Ser. No. 17/151,355, U.S. Ser. No. 15/767,023, Intl. App. No.PCT/EP2016/074111 and U.S. Ser. No. 62/239,517 are incorporated hereinby reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to controllers for controlling the play ofcomputerised games; more particularly, but not exclusively, theinvention relates to an actuator system of a game controller for agaming console.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many different types of gaming consoles currently availablefor operating a video game. For example, Microsoft®, Sony® and Nintendo®manufacture the Xbox®, Playstation® and Wii® gaming consoles,respectively. The gaming consoles typically include a game controller sothat a user can control the operation of the video game.

Controllers for most current games consoles are generally intended to beheld and operated by the user using both hands. A conventionalcontroller will generally comprise a hard outer case with a plurality ofcontrols mounted about the controller. Typically the controls includebuttons, analogue control sticks, bumpers and triggers.

Some known game controllers include a form of actuator system for theoperation of control of the functions of the video games. Actuators,buttons or other depressible or manually operable devices are typicallyused for controlling discrete actions such as the firing of a weapon orissuing an attack command.

It is known to provide a button, actuator, or other controls, on thefront and top of the controller. Controls mounted on the top of thecontroller are intended to be operable by the index fingers of a user;such buttons are commonly known as triggers or bumpers. Controls mountedon the front of the controller are intended to be operable by the thumbsof a user; such controls may include left and right analogue thumbsticks, which normally control movement and are intended to be operatedby the user's left and right thumbs respectively. There may beadditional buttons located on a forward right portion of the front ofthe controller, which normally control additional actions and areintended to be operated by the user's right thumb.

A further actuator in the form of a direction pad (D-pad) or control padmay be located on the rearward left portion of the front of thecontroller. The direction pad is intended to be operated by the user'sthumb, typically the direction pad is employed as either an alternativecontrol to one of the thumb sticks or to provide additionalfunctionality or actions not provided by the thumb sticks. Suchactuators are typically a four-way directional control with one switchmechanism arranged on each point of a cross. The direction pad may bedigital; in other words, only the directions provided on the D-padbuttons can be used, with no intermediate values. However, combinationsof two directions (up and left, for example) can provide diagonals suchthat a direction pad having four actuators can be used to provideeight-directional input. The direction pads are typically arranged suchthat they do not protrude far from the front of the controller or atleast they do not protrude from the front of the controller as far asthe thumb sticks protrude.

The different elevations of direction pads and thumb sticks above thefront of the controller can increase the time period required for a userto switch between the controls. It may also introduce inaccuracy, forexample increasing the likelihood of a user unintentionally interactingwith the thumbstick or direction pad or misplacing their thumb upon thecontrol so as to send an inaccurate or unintended directional inputinstruction.

The controllers typically have a pair of handles or grip portions toenable a user to hold the controller; typically the user will employ themiddle, ring and/or little finger of each hand to grasp a respectivehandle.

Due to the rapidly expanding gaming market and development of involvedgames invoking considerable player input, it is desirable for players tobe able to customise their controllers in order to gain increasedcontrol in a variety of gaming circumstances.

The present invention seeks to improve upon, or at least mitigate, someof the problems associated with controllers of the prior art byproviding a game controller

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an apparatus forsupplying user inputs to a computer program, such as a game program, forcontrolling the game program. The apparatus comprising a case and aplurality of controls located on a front of the apparatus. At least onefirst actuator may be mounted to one of the plurality of controls. Agrip member may be mounted to the at least one first actuator.

Optionally, the apparatus is shaped to be held in both hands of a usersuch that the user's thumbs are positioned to operate controls locatedon the front of the apparatus.

Optionally, the one of the plurality of controls is in a positionoperable by a thumb of a user.

In some embodiments, the at least one first actuator is removablymounted to the apparatus.

Optionally, the at least one first actuator is secured to the one of theplurality of controls by a friction fit.

In some embodiments, the one of the plurality of controls is a directionpad.

Optionally, a first one of the plurality of controls is disposedproximate a second control operable by a thumb of a user.

In some embodiments, the at least one first actuator comprises a plateand the grip member is received in a first orifice provided in theplate.

Optionally, the at least one first actuator comprises a mounting whichdefines a second orifice, a portion of said one of the plurality ofcontrols being received in the orifice.

Optionally, the grip member is centrally disposed on the plate.

Optionally, the grip member comprises a plurality of grip elementsdisposed about the periphery of the plate. The plurality of gripelements may be coupled together.

Optionally, the grip member is detachably mounted to the at least onefirst actuator.

In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a plurality of controlslocated on a top of the apparatus and the apparatus is shaped to be heldin both hands of a user such that the user's index fingers arepositioned to operate controls located on the top of the apparatus.

A second aspect of the present disclosure provides an apparatus forsupplying user inputs to a computer program, such as a game program, forcontrolling the game program, the apparatus comprising a case and aplurality of controls located on a front of the apparatus. At least onefirst actuator may be mounted to the one of the plurality of controls.The at least one first actuator may comprise a plate mounted to amounting, the plate may be arranged so as to be disposed at aninclination to the case.

A third aspect of the present disclosure provides an apparatus forsupplying user inputs to a computer program, such as a game program, forcontrolling the game program, the apparatus comprising a case and aplurality of controls located on a front of the apparatus. At least onefirst actuator may be mounted to the one of the plurality of controls.The at least one first actuator may comprise a plate and a mounting theplate being rotatably mounted on the mounting.

Optionally, the plate is rotatably mounted, about at least twoorthogonal axes, to the mounting.

Optionally, the at least one first actuator comprises a securingmechanism for securing the plate in a given orientation with respect tothe mounting.

Optionally, the plate is pivotally mounted to the mounting so as to beconfigurable at an inclination with respect to the mounting.

In some embodiments, the plate is mounted to the mounting by a ball andsocket mechanism.

Optionally, the plate comprises a ball mount.

Optionally, the mounting comprises a socket.

In some embodiments, the ball and socket mechanism comprises a securingmechanism.

Optionally, the securing mechanism comprises a bore in communicationwith the socket and set screw received within the bore.

Optionally, the set screw comprises a first end bearing against theball.

A fourth aspect of the present disclosure provides an actuator for usewith apparatus for supplying user inputs to a computer program, such asa game program, for controlling the game program, the apparatuscomprising a case and a plurality of controls located on a front of theapparatus. The actuator may comprise a mounting for mounting theactuator to one of the plurality of controls and a grip member mountedto the actuator.

A fifth aspect of the present disclosure provides an actuator for usewith apparatus for supplying user inputs to a computer program, such asa game program, for controlling the game program, the apparatuscomprising a case and a plurality of controls located on a front of theapparatus. The actuator may comprise a mounting for mounting theactuator to one of the plurality of controls and a plate mounted to themounting, the plate being arranged so as to be disposed at aninclination to the case.

A sixth aspect of the present disclosure provides an actuator for usewith apparatus for supplying user inputs to a computer program, such asa game program, for controlling the game program, the apparatuscomprising a case and a plurality of controls located on a front of theapparatus. The actuator may comprise a mounting for mounting theactuator to one of the plurality of controls; and a plate rotatablymounted to a mounting.

In some embodiments the apparatus is a games controller. Furtherfeatures and advantages of the present invention will be apparent fromthe specific embodiment illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged and intended thatthe various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternativesset out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in thefollowing description and drawings may be taken independently or in anycombination thereof. For example, features described in connection withone embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there isincompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of the front of a games consolecontroller according to a first embodiment showing a plurality ofcontrols thereon;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the games console controller of FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 3A to 3D are perspective views of an actuator according to a firstembodiment for being employed with the controller of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the control of FIGS. 3A to 3D is detachedfrom the controller;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the control of FIGS. 3A to 3D is mountedto the controller;

FIGS. 6A to 6C are perspective views of an actuator according to asecond embodiment for being employed with the controller of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the actuator of FIGS. 6A to 6C is mountedto the controller;

FIGS. 8A and 9A are perspective views of an actuator according to athird embodiment for being employed with the controller of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8B is a side view of the actuator of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the control of FIGS. 8A, 8B and 9A ismounted to the controller;

FIGS. 10A to 10C are perspective views of an actuator according to afourth embodiment for being employed with the controller of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 10D is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the actuator of FIGS. 10A to 10C ismounted to the controller;

FIG. 10E is a side view of the actuator showing the angle of inclination(ω).

FIGS. 11A and 11B are perspective views of an actuator according to afifth embodiment for being employed with the controller of FIG. 1 ; and

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of a portion of the front of the gamescontroller of FIG. 1 in which the actuator of FIGS. 11A and 11B ismounted to the controller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of game controllers andactuators or controls are disclosed herein. It will be understood thatthe disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in whichcertain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not representan exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied.Indeed, it will be understood that the game controllers and actuators orcontrols described herein may be embodied in various and alternativeforms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may beexaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components.Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarilydescribed in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the presentdisclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis forthe claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in theart to variously employ the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1 , there is shown a controller 10 according to anembodiment of the invention. The controller 10 comprises an arrangementof game controls that are mounted on the front and top of the controller10. The controller 10 comprises a left analogue thumb stick 2 and aright analogue thumb stick 3 mounted on the front of the controller 10.The left analogue thumb stick 2 and the right analogue thumb stick 3normally control movement actions and are intended to be operated by theuser's left and right thumbs respectively. The controller 10 comprisesfour buttons 4, located on a forward right portion of the front of thecontroller 10, which normally control additional in-game actions andthat are intended to be operated by the user's right thumb. Thecontroller 10 comprises a direction pad 5 located on the rearward leftportion of the front of the controller 10. The direction pad 5 isintended to be operated by the user's left thumb, and typically is usedeither as an alternative to the left thumb stick 2, or to provideadditional actions. The controller 10 also comprises a left trigger body6, a right trigger body 7, a left bumper 8 and a right bumper 9 locatedon the top of the controller 10. The left and right trigger bodies 6, 7are typically operated by a user's index fingers or forefingers. Theleft and right bumpers 8, 9 may also be operated by a user's indexfingers or forefingers. It will be understood that the arrangement ofgame controls illustrated in respect of the present embodiment isoptional and may vary in other game controllers embodying the presentinvention, which may be applied to a variety of actuators or controls asdescribed below.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the controller 10 of FIG. 1 . It can beseen that the left trigger body 6 is mounted below the left bumper 8 andthe right trigger body 7 is mounted below the right bumper 9.

A user may operate the four buttons 4 on the front of the controller byremoving their right thumb from the right thumb stick 3 and placingtheir right thumb upon one or more of the four buttons 4. This operationtakes time and, in some games, can cause a loss of control. This is aparticular problem in applications requiring precision, for examplecombat games, where the right thumb stick 3 is used for aiming aweapon's cross-hair or other reticle.

A user may operate the direction pad 5 on the front of the controller byremoving their left thumb from the left thumb stick 2 and placing theirleft thumb upon the direction pad 5. This operation takes time and, insome games, can cause a loss of control. This is a particular problem inapplications requiring precision.

A similar problem may arise when a user operates the four buttons 4 onthe front of the controller by removing their right thumb from the rightthumb stick 3 and placing their right thumb upon one or more of the fourbuttons 4.

In light of the above, there is a need for an improved controller whichovercomes or mitigates against the aforesaid problem with changingbetween controls on the front of the controller 10.

The controller 10 comprises a first handle H_(R) and a second handleH_(L). The first handle H_(R) and the second handle H_(L) are disposedon opposing lateral sides of a central body portion 15. The first handleH_(R) is intended to be grasped in the right hand of a user. The secondhandle H_(L) is intended to be grasped in the left hand of a user. Theuser wraps one or more of the middle, ring and little fingers of theright hand about the first handle H_(R). The user wraps one or more ofthe middle, ring and little fingers of the left hand about the secondhandle H_(L).

In the illustrated embodiment the direction pad 5 comprises a crossshaped button at least partially extending through a complementary crossshaped aperture in the casing 12 of the controller, see FIG. 4 .

In other embodiments the direction pad 5 may comprise four buttonmembers coupled to, mounted to, or integrally formed with a cross shapedbody. Each of the four button members passes at least partially througha respective aperture in the casing 12. The cross shaped body isdisposed internally of the casing 12.

In yet other embodiments the direction pad 5 may be alternativelyarranged for example it may take the form of a large circular buttonpassing through a circular aperture in the casing 12. The button maycomprise indicia such a raised embossments or mouldings which indicatethe directions of the switches or actuators disposed therebelow.

FIGS. 3A to 3D illustrate an actuator device 11 for being fitted to adirection pad 5. The actuator device 11 comprises a pad or plate 13. Inthe illustrated embodiment the plate 13 is patelliform in shape, dishedor sunken at the centre, that is to say concave. In alternativeembodiments other shapes may be employed; for example, but not limitedto, a planar or flat shape.

An aperture 14 is provided at the centre of the plate 13. Optionally theplate 13 may be circular so as to form an annulus.

The actuator device 11 comprises a mounting 18. The mounting 18comprises walls 19 defining an orifice 20 for receiving at least aportion of the direction pad 5. The mounting 18 is configured to becomplementary in shape to the portion of the direction pad 5 whichprojects outwardly of the casing 12 of the controller 10.

In the illustrated embodiment the walls 19 of mounting 18 define a crossshaped recess or orifice 20 for receiving the portion of the directionpad 5 which protrudes through the casing 12, see FIGS. 3C and 4 .

The actuator device 11 comprises or can accommodate a grip member 16A,16B, 16C. The grip member 16A, 16B, 16C may be interchangeable, that isto say it is detachable so as to be replaceable with another grip member16A, 16B, 16C.

A grip member 16A, 16B, 16C, may be selected and is inserted into therecess or orifice 20 in the mounting 18 and a portion of the grip member16A, 16B, 16C is received in the aperture 14. Said portion of the gripmember 16A, 16B, 16C may protrude through the aperture 14. In otherembodiments said portion of the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C may bearranged to be flush with the portion of the plate 13 proximate theaperture 14.

The grip member 16A, 16B, 16C comprises a retainer for preventing thegrip member from passing through the aperture 14. In the illustratedembodiment, the retainer takes the form of a plurality of lugs 17arranged to form shoulders such that the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C islarger in dimension than the aperture 14. FIG. 3B illustrates four lugscircumferentially arranged, although two opposing lugs may suffice; morethan two lugs may be provided about the periphery of the grip member16A, 16B, 16C. In other embodiments other arrangements may be employedto form the shoulder, for example, but not limited to, an annular orring shaped projection or ledge about the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C.

The grip member 16A, 16B, 16C may be secured in position by a clipmechanism. In alternative embodiments the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C issecured in position by friction or interference fit.

The grip member 16A, 16B, 16C may be received in a recess or rebate 40in the lower or inner surface of the plate 13. The recess or rebate 40may comprise an undercut for holding the lugs 17 of the grip member 16A,16B, 16C.

The lower or inner surface of the plate 13 may comprise one or moreridges 42, the one or more ridges may extend beyond the recess or rebate40 so as to engage with a lower surface of the grip member 16A, 16B, 16Cformed by the lugs 17, thereby holding the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C inposition.

The one or more ridges 42 may also be shaped to be complementary to theupper surface of the direction pad 5. The one or more ridges 42 may restupon the upper surface of the direction pad 5.

The walls 17 of the mounting 18 comprise an inner surface, the innersurface may comprise one or more projections 44 extending inwardlytherefrom. Each of the one or more projections 44 may be tapered orwedge shaped. The one or more projections 44 being arranged such thatthe thin end of the wedge is proximate the orifice 20 and the thick endof the wedge is proximate the lower surface of the plate 13. In this waythe one or more projections 44 may facilitate tightening of the actuatordevice 11 as it is pressed onto the direction pad 5.

The grip member 16C is arranged such that the upper surface of theportion of the grip member which is received in the aperture 14 issubstantially flat.

The grip member 16B is arranged such that the upper surface of theportion of the grip member which is received in the aperture 14comprises one or more ridges or bosses projecting upwardly from asubstantially flat plane. In the illustrated embodiment each of the oneor more ridges takes the form of a ring; the rings are concentricallyarranged about the centre of the aperture 14. In other embodiments otherarrangements may be employed for example, but not limited to, aplurality of knobs or substantially hemispherical protuberances.

The grip member 16A is arranged such that the upper surface of theportion of the grip member which is received in the aperture 14 issubstantially convex in shape when viewed from above. In the illustratedembodiment the grip member 16A comprises a mound or rounded protrusioncentred in the aperture 14.

In yet other embodiments the grip member 16A, 16B, 16C may be adhesivelysecured in position, in such embodiments the grip member 16A, 16B, 16Cmay not be interchangeable. In still other embodiments the grip member16A, 16B, 16C may be overmoulded onto the plate 13 of the actuatordevice 11. Such overmoulding may be achieved for example, but notlimited to, by injection moulding, such that a second material ismoulded onto a first material.

The first material may be a rigid material such as a metal or rigidplastics material. The second material may be a rubberised material orplastics material which is softer, flexible or deformable material whichmay provide greater comfort to the user. The second material may beformed from a material which increases the friction between the user'shands and the actuator device.

FIG. 5 illustrates a controller 10 in which an actuator device 11 hasbeen mounted on the direction pad 5. The portion of the direction pad 5protruding through the casing 12 has been received in the orifice 20 ofthe actuator device 11. The actuator device 11 is held in position by aninterference fit.

The portion of the direction pad 5 protruding through the casing 12 mayassist the retention of the grip member 16B in the aperture 14 bysupporting the grip member 16B from below so as to encourage or forcethe grip member 16B into the aperture 14. The lugs 17 of the grip member16B prevent the grip member from passing through the aperture 14.

In alternative embodiments the actuator device 11 may be integrallyformed with the direction pad 5.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A to 6C and 7 there is shown an additionalembodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustratedembodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote likeparts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100” to indicate thatthese features belong to the second embodiment. The additionalembodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment andtherefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.1 to 5 will be described in detail.

FIGS. 6A to 6C illustrate an actuator device 111 for being fitted to adirection pad 5. The actuator device 111 comprises a pad or plate 113.In the illustrated embodiment the plate 113 is patelliform in shape,dished or sunken at the centre, that is to say concave. In alternativeembodiments other shapes may be employed; for example, but not limitedto, a planar or flat shape.

Four apertures 14 are provided proximate the peripheral edge of theplate 113. Optionally the plate 113 may be circular. The plate 113 andapertures 114 may be arranged to define a cruciform or cross shapedcentral portion or spokes bounded by a ring or rim.

Each of the apertures 114 of the illustrated embodiment are shaped inthe form of a sector of a circle, each sector has been truncated toremove the nose or point. The apertures 114 may be substantiallyquadrant shaped.

In alternative embodiments, the apertures 114 may have a substantiallytrapezoidal or triangular or other shape.

The actuator device 111 comprises a mounting 118. The mounting 118comprises walls 119 defining an orifice 120 for receiving at least aportion of the direction pad. The mounting 118 is configured to becomplementary in shape to the portion of the direction pad 5 whichprojects outwardly of the casing 112 of the controller 110.

In the illustrated embodiment the walls 119 of mounting 118 define across shaped recess or orifice 120 for receiving the portion of thedirection pad which protrudes through the casing 112.

The actuator device 111 comprises a grip member 116A, 116B, 116C. Thegrip member 116A, 116B, 116C may be interchangeable, that is to say itis detachable so as to be replaceable with another grip member 116A,116B, 116C.

The grip member 116A, 116B, 116C comprises a plurality of grip elements142A, 142B, 142C, for example four, in alternate embodiments more orless than four grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C may be provided. Each gripelement 142A, 142B, 142C is configured to be complementary in shape to arespective one of the apertures 114.

The plurality of grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C may be coupled or joinedtogether. Each of the plurality of grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C may becoupled to two adjacent neighbours on either side.

The plurality of grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C may be arranged todefine a cross shaped aperture 133.

Each grip element 142A, 142B, 142C comprises a shoulder. The shouldersurrounds the periphery of the grip element 142A, 142B, 142C. Theshoulder is located proximate a lower end of the grip element 142A,142B, 142C. The shoulder provides a retainer for preventing the gripelement 142A, 142B, 142C passing through the aperture 114.

The shoulder may be formed in part by a rim 140A, 140B, 140C or ringwhich couples the grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C together. The rim 140A,140B, 140C may be integral with the grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C.

The grip member 116A, 116B, 116C may be configured to receive themounting 118. The grip member 116A, 116B, 116C may be arranged tosurround the mounting 118.

Each grip element 142A, 142B, 142C is received in a respective aperture114. A portion of the grip member 116B, 116C may protrude through theaperture 114. In other embodiments said portion of the grip member 116Amay be arranged to be flush with the portion of the plate 113 proximatethe aperture 114.

The grip member 116A, 116B, 116C or grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C maybe secured in position by a clip mechanism. In alternative embodimentsthe grip member 116A, 116B, 116C or grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C maybe secured in position by friction or interference fit.

The grip elements 142A, 142C are arranged such that the upper surface ofthe portion of the grip elements 142A, 142C, which is received in theapertures 114, is substantially flat.

The grip element 142B is arranged such that the upper surface of theportion of the grip member which is received in the aperture 114comprises one or more ridges or bosses projecting upwardly from asubstantially flat plane. In the illustrated embodiment each of the oneor more ridges takes the form of a curved ridge. Each curved ridge maydefine part of a circle, the curved ridge may be concentricallyarranged. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the gripelement 142B may comprise one or more troughs or debossments.

In other embodiments other arrangements may be employed for example, butnot limited to, a plurality of knobs or substantially hemisphericalprotuberances.

In some embodiments, the grip member 116A, 116B, 116C or grip elements142A, 142B, 142C may be adhesively secured in position. In still otherembodiments the grip member 116A, 116B, 116C or grip elements 142A,142B, 142C may be overmoulded onto the plate 113. In embodiments inwhich the plate is also moulded a two-hot moulding process may beemployed. In such embodiments the apertures 114 may be omitted or may bereplaced with recess or rebates in the upper surface of the plate 113.

The plate 113 may be formed from a first material which may be a rigidmaterial such as a metal or rigid plastics material. The grip member116A, 116B, 116C or grip elements 142A, 142B, 142C may be formed from asecond material which may be a rubberised material or plastics materialwhich is softer, flexible or deformable material which may providegreater comfort to the user. The second material may be a material whichprovides increased friction between the user's hands and the actuatordevice 111 than the first material.

FIG. 7 illustrates a controller 110 in which an actuator device 111 hasbeen mounted on the direction pad. The portion of the direction padprotruding through the casing 112 has been received in the orifice 120of the actuator device 111. The actuator device 111 is held in positionby an interference fit.

The portion of the direction pad protruding through the casing 112 mayassist the retention of the grip member 116B or grip element 142B in theapertures 114 by supporting the grip member 116B or grip element 142Bfrom below so as to encourage or force the grip member 116B or gripelement 142B into the apertures 114. The shoulders of the grip element142B prevent the grip element 142B from passing through the aperture114.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A and 9B, there is shown an alternativeembodiment. In the third illustrated embodiment like numerals have,where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the additionof the prefix “200” to indicate that these features belong to the thirdembodiment respectively. The alternative embodiment shares many commonfeatures with the first and second embodiments and therefore only thedifferences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6C will bedescribed in any greater detail.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A and 9B illustrate an actuator device 211 for beingfitted to a direction pad 5 (see FIG. 1 ). The actuator device 211comprises a pad or plate 213. In the illustrated embodiment the plate213 is non planar, it has a raised peripheral edge and a raised mound inthe centre so as to have an undulating surface 221. In alternativeembodiments other shapes may be employed; for example, but not limitedto, a planar or flat shape, or dish shape.

The actuator device 211 comprises a mounting 218. The mounting 218comprises walls 219 defining an orifice 220 for receiving at least aportion of the direction pad. The mounting 218 is configured to becomplementary in shape to the portion of the direction pad whichprojects outwardly of the casing 212 of the controller 210.

In the illustrated embodiment the walls 219 of mounting 218 define across shaped recess or orifice 220 for receiving the portion of thedirection pad which protrudes through the casing 212.

The walls 219 of the mounting 218 are arranged such that the actuatordevice 211 is substantially wedge shaped best shown in FIG. 8B. Theplate 213 can be viewed as a bowl having a rim R and an undulatingsurface 221. The rim R of the bowl and the base of the walls arearranged to define a nonzero angle θ therebetween.

The cross shape of the mounting 218 defines an X direction and a Ydirection, see FIG. 8A. The plate 213 is inclined along the X direction.In this way the highest T and lowest B elevations of the rim R lie upona notional line defining the X direction.

It will be appreciated that the actuator device 211 may be mounted onthe direction pad in four different orientations so as to adjust theorientation of the X and Y directions of the actuator device withrespect to a longitudinal direction of the controller 210. Thelongitudinal direction, as indicated by dashed line L in FIG. 9A,extends from the top (to which the right and left triggers 6, 7 aremounted) of the controller 10 to the bottom of the controller 10, seeFIG. 1 . In this way the plate 213 can be arranged so as to be inclinedtoward the front of the controller 210, towards the rear of thecontroller 210, or towards either of the opposing sides of thecontroller 210 (that is to say towards either the first or secondhandles H_(R), H_(L)).

In alternative embodiments, the orientation of the inclination of theplate 213 with respect to the mounting 218 may be altered such that itdoes not extend along the X or Y direction but may be oriented betweenthe X and Y direction. For example, it may be oriented such that thehighest and lowest elevations of the rim lie upon a notional linebisecting the X and Y directions as defined by the cross-shaped mounting218.

The orientation of the inclination of the plate 213 with respect to themounting 218 may be configured such that either the highest or lowestelevation of the rim of the plate 213 may be disposed in closestproximity to the proximate thumb stick 202.

FIG. 9A illustrates a controller 210 in which an actuator device 211 hasbeen mounted on the direction pad. The portion of the direction padprotruding through the casing 212 has been received in the orifice 220of the actuator device 211. The actuator device 211 is held in positionby an interference fit.

In some embodiments the plate 213 may comprise a grip member or gripelements.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A to 10E, there is shown an alternativeembodiment. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, like numerals have,where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the additionof the prefix “300” to indicate that these features belong to the fourthembodiment respectively. The alternative embodiment shares many commonfeatures with the first, second and third embodiments and therefore onlythe differences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9B willbe described in any greater detail.

FIGS. 10A to 10E illustrate an actuator device 311 for being fitted to adirection pad 5 (see FIG. 1 ). The actuator device 311 comprises a pador plate 313. In the illustrated embodiment the plate 313 is non planar,it has a raised peripheral edge to form a dish or bowl shape. Inalternative embodiments other shapes may be employed; for example, butnot limited to, a planar or flat shape or undulating shape.

The actuator device 311 comprises a mounting 318. The mounting 318comprises walls 319 defining an orifice 320 for receiving at least aportion of the direction pad. The mounting 318 is configured to becomplementary in shape to the portion of the direction pad whichprojects outwardly of the casing 312 of the controller 310.

In the illustrated embodiment the walls 319 of mounting 318 define across shaped recess or orifice 320 for receiving the portion of thedirection pad which protrudes through the casing 312.

The cross shape of the mounting 318 defines an X direction and a Ydirection.

The orientation of the plate 313 with respect to the mounting 318 can beadjusted or altered by rotating the plate 313 about an axis Z extendingperpendicularly through the orifice of the socket 324 and hence therespective positions of the highest T and lowest L points of the rim Rof the plate 313 can be rotationally adjusted with respect to themounting 318. The highest T and lowest L points of the rim R of theplate 313 can be rotated about the axis Z.

The angle of inclination ω (see FIG. 10E) can be adjusted bymanipulating the ball mount 328 within the socket 324.

The mounting 318 comprises a socket 324 for receiving a ball mount 328.The socket 318 is centrally located on the mounting 318 so as to lie onthe intersection or vertex of the cross shape. In alternativeembodiments the plate 313 may be mounted to the mounting 318 byalternative mounting arrangements, for example but, not limited to, auniversal joint (a pair of hinges located close together, oriented at90° to each other), the universal joint may be mounted to the mounting318 for rotation about the Z axis. Alternatively, two more gimbals,mounted one on the other with orthogonal pivot axes, may be employed,the two more gimbals may be mounted to the mounting 318 for rotationabout the Z axis

In this way the plate 313 is rotatably or pivotally mounted about two ormore orthogonal axes on the mounting 318.

The plate 313 comprises a ball mount 328 which may be centrally disposedand extend from a base or lower surface thereof. The ball mount 328 maybe integral with the plate 313. In other embodiments the ball mount 328may be eccentrically positioned with respect to the plate 313

The mounting 318 comprises a bore 326 which is in communication with thesocket 324. The bore 326 is configured to receive set screw 322 havingan external thread for securing the ball mount within or the socket. Theset screw 322 may be blind (headless) and take the form of a grub screwand comprises an internal drive such as, but not limited to, a hex ortorx socket. The set screw may comprise a detent of flat for engagingwith the ball mount.

In alternative embodiments an alternative securing mechanism may beemployed for example a pin may be received in the bore 326, the pin maybe resiliently biased against the ball mount 328 so as to hold the plate313 in a desired position. The inclination and orientation of the plate313 may be adjusted by overcoming the biasing force applied to the pinso as to disengage the pin (or other device, such as a clutch plate, towhich the pin may be coupled) from the ball mount 328.

The bore 326 may comprise an internal thread complementary to theexternal thread of the set screw 322. Alternatively, the set screw 322may be configured to create an internal thread in the bore 326 whendriven into the bore 326—self-tapping the bore 326. In still otherembodiments the external thread of the set screw 322 may be received inan internal thread provided by an insert disposed within the bore 326.

The bore 326 and set screw 322 form a retainer for retaining the ballmount 328 in the socket 324. The bore 326 and set screw 322 also form aclutch for holding the plate 313 in a desired orientation and/orinclination with respect to the mounting 318. FIG. 10A illustrates theplate 313 held in a flat or parallel relationship with the mounting 318.FIG. 10B illustrates the plate 313 held in an inclined relationship withthe mounting 318.

The plate 313 in the illustrated embodiments has a substantiallycircular shape when viewed from above, see FIG. 10D, however inalternative embodiments other shapes may be employed for example, butnot limited to, the plate 313 may have an elliptical or egg shape.

The actuator device 311 is adjustable such that a user may select oroptimise the orientation and/or inclination of the plate 313 withrespect to the mounting 318. The plate 313 is secured in the desiredposition by winding the set screw 322 into the bore 326 until it engageswith the ball mount 328. The ball mount 328 is held in position byfriction between the ball mount 328 and the socket 324 and between theball mount 328 and the set screw 322.

FIG. 10D illustrates a controller 310 in which an actuator device 311has been mounted on the direction pad. The portion of the direction padprotruding through the casing 312 has been received in the orifice 320of the mounting 318 of the actuator device 311. The actuator device 311is held on the controller 310 by an interference fit.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A to 11C, there is shown an alternativeembodiment. In the fifth illustrated embodiment like numerals have,where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the additionof the prefix “400” to indicate that these features belong to the fifthembodiment respectively. The alternative embodiments share many commonfeatures with the first, second, third and fourth embodiments andtherefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.1 to 10E will be described in any greater detail.

FIGS. 11A to 11C illustrate an actuator device 411 for being fitted to adirection pad 5 (see FIG. 1 ). The actuator device 411 comprises a pad432. In the illustrated embodiment the pad 432 is non planar, it has araised peripheral edge to form an inverted dome, dish or bowl shape. Inalternative embodiments other shapes may be employed; for example, butnot limited to, a planar or flat shape or undulating shape.

The actuator device 411 comprises a mounting 418. The mounting 418comprises walls 419 defining an orifice 420 for receiving at least aportion of the direction pad. The mounting 418 is configured to becomplementary in shape to the portion of the direction pad whichprojects outwardly of the casing 412 of the controller 410.

In the illustrated embodiment the walls 419 of mounting 418 define across shaped recess or orifice 420 for receiving the portion of thedirection pad which protrudes through the casing 412.

The cross shape of the mounting 418 defines an X direction and a Ydirection.

The pad 432 is rotationally mounted to the mounting 418.

In the illustrated embodiment, the pad 432 has centrally disposedaperture for receiving a portion 430 of the mounting 418. The pad 432 issecured to the mounting by a clip mechanism such as a bayonet stylefastener. The pad 432 is freely rotatable around the portion 430 of themounting 418 received in the aperture. In other embodiments, theaperture 418 may be replaced with a recess or blind hole in the base ofthe plate 418, the portion 430 of the mounting 418 may be received inthe orifice of the blind hole.

The pad 432 may comprise a locator 434, the locator 434 may take theform of an indentation or recess in the upper surface of the pad 432. Inalternative embodiments the locator 434 may take the form of a raisedmound or protrusion extending outwardly from the surface of the pad 432.It still other embodiments the locator 434 may take the form of a gripmember or grip element over moulded or otherwise mounted to the pad 432.The locator 434 provides a user with a fixed point of reference on thepad 432. The user may place a finger on the locator 434 and rotate thepad 432 in either direction. The user may press downwardlysimultaneously as they rotate so as to sequentially activate the switchmechanisms of the direction pad. This may allow a user to rapidlyactuate two or more switch mechanisms in quick succession.

It is envisaged that the controllers may be coupled to a games consoleor computer by a wired connection or by a wireless connection device.

The actuators may be toollessly coupled to, and uncoupled from, thecontroller.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scopeof the present invention. Whilst in the foregoing embodiments theactuator mechanism has been described with reference to a hand heldgames controller for use with a home video games console or otherpersonal computer, in alternative embodiments the actuator mechanism maybe employed with other hand held electronic devices, for example but notlimited to a portable handheld games console (a single unit comprisingthe console, screen, speakers, and controls), a mobile telephone,smartphone, tablet computer, phablet computer. The actuator mechanismmay be integrated within such portable devices or may form part of anaccessory apparatus such as, but not limited to, a case or caddy orother removable jacket arranged to accommodate the portable device.

In some embodiments the first and or second paddle levers may comprise arecess or cutaway on an inner surface thereof, the recess or cutawaybeing provided to receive the wing portion of the third or fourth paddlelever respectively.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references suchas “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”,“upper” and “lower” do not limit the respective features to suchorientation, but merely serve to distinguish these features from oneanother.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for supplying user inputs to acomputer, the apparatus comprising: a case shaped to be held in bothhands of a user, the case comprising a top and a bottom separated by afront; a top control located on the top of the apparatus and configuredto be operated by the user's index finger to provide user inputs whenthe apparatus is held in the user's hands; and a plurality of frontcontrols located on the front of the apparatus, each of the plurality offront controls configured to be operated by the user's thumbs to provideuser inputs when the apparatus is held in the user's hands, a first ofthe plurality of front controls comprising an actuator, wherein theactuator comprises: a mounting configured to couple the actuator to thefirst of the plurality of front controls, and an actuation surfacepivotally attached to the mounting such that the actuation surface isconfigurable to a plurality of inclinations with respect to the front ofthe case.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first of the pluralityof front controls comprises a direction pad configured to activate aplurality of sensors.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the pluralityof sensors comprise at least four switches.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2wherein the direction pad is substantially cross-shaped.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the mounting of the actuator is removablycoupled to the first of the plurality of front controls.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 5 wherein a bottom of the mounting opposite the topof the mounting to which the actuation surface is attached comprises across shaped opening for receiving the first of the plurality of frontcontrols.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the mounting issubstantially crossed shaped.
 8. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein themounting of the actuator is secured to the first of the plurality offront controls by a friction fit.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1 whereinthe actuation surface is substantially circular in shape.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 9 wherein the actuation surface comprises aperipheral edge that is raised with respect to the center of theactuation surface.
 11. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein the actuationsurface comprises a plurality of grip elements projecting upwardly froma top surface of the actuation surface.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1wherein the actuation surface is pivotally attached to the mounting soas to be configurable to a plurality of inclinations with respect to thefront of the case.
 13. An actuator for use with apparatus for supplyinguser inputs to a computer program for controlling the computer program,the apparatus comprising: a case shaped to be held in both hands of auser; a plurality of top controls located on a top of the apparatus, theplurality of top controls configured to be operated by the user's indexfingers to supply user inputs when the apparatus is held in the user'shands; and a plurality of front controls located on a front of theapparatus, the plurality of front controls configured to be operated bythe user's thumbs to supply user inputs when the apparatus is held inthe user's hands; the actuator comprising: a mounting configured tocouple the actuator to a first control of the plurality of frontcontrols; and an actuation surface rotationally attached to the mountingsuch that the actuation surface is rotatable with respect to themounting during use of the apparatus.
 14. The actuator of claim 13wherein the mounting is removably coupled to the first control of theplurality of front controls.
 15. The actuator of claim 13 wherein thefirst control comprises a substantially cross shaped direction pad. 16.The actuator of claim 15 wherein a bottom of the mounting opposite thetop of the mounting to which the actuation surface is affixed comprisesa cross shaped opening for receiving the first control.
 17. The actuatorof claim 15 wherein the mounting of the actuator is secured to the firstcontrol by a friction fit.
 18. The actuator of claim 13 wherein theactuation surface is substantially circular.
 19. The actuator of claim13 wherein the actuator surface is attached to the mounting by a clipmechanism.
 20. The actuator of claim 13 wherein the actuator furthercomprises a locating mechanism for providing the user with a fixed pointof reference on the actuation surface.